One touch actuated valve

ABSTRACT

A one touch valve for activating fluid flow between an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit is disclosed. The valve has a flow cylinder defining an inflow chamber in fluid communication with the inlet conduit and an outflow chamber in fluid communication with the outlet conduit. The flow cylinder includes an end plate and an intermediate plate having a center collar with an aperture. A flexible diaphragm is provided with a sealing surface in contact with the collar to create a seal. The diaphragm has an edge coupled to the intermediate plate and a small diameter hole providing fluid contact between the inflow chamber and an intermediate chamber which is defined by the intermediate plate of the flow cylinder. A plunger is placed on the diaphragm to create a seal with the opposite surface of the diaphragm from the sealing surface. A shaft has one end connected to the plunger and extends through the aperture of the diaphragm. A spring is located between the end plate of the flow cylinder and the contact surface of the plunger. Pushing the shaft causes the plunger to separate from the diaphragm creating fluid pressure on the diaphragm contact surface to push the plunger toward the end plate end, compressing the spring, and causing the diaphragm to separate from the collar causing fluid to flow from the inflow chamber through the aperture to the outflow chamber. Releasing the shaft causes the spring to decompress, forcing the plunger and diaphragm away from the end plate re-establishing the seal between the sealing surface with the collar preventing fluid flow from the intermediate chamber to the outflow chamber.

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a valve having one touch control. Morespecifically, this invention relates to a valve control which requires alight one touch to fully open and close the valve.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0002] Irrigation over small areas has involved the use of a hose havingone end connected to a sillcock and moving the opposite open end of thehose to direct the water to desired areas. Using the sillcock, waterflow may be turned on or cut off to the opposite open end of the hose.Additionally, the rate of water flow may be regulated by turning thesillcock. However, this method of flow control is impractical as oftenthe hose is extended a distance from the sillcock making it inconvenientto return to the sillcock to turn water flow on or off or adjust theflow rate. Additionally, the open end of the hose only issues water in acontinuous stream. Thus, various irrigation devices with flow controlwere developed to be connected to the open end of a hose. With suchirrigation devices, the sillcock could be turned on to provide fullwater flow while the user had local control of the flow using theirrigation device.

[0003] Typically, one such irrigation device is a pistol-grip hosenozzle. A typical pistol-grip nozzle includes a tubular body having ahandle portion connectable at one end to the garden hose. The body has afixed barrel portion extending from the opposite end of the hoseconnector at an angle similar to the angle between a pistol's handle andbarrel. The water stream issues from the nozzle at the forward end ofthe barrel. Both the activation and cutoff of the flow and the flow rateof the water stream are determined by a valve which has an aperturewhich may be aligned to regulate water flow. The valve may be controlledby a valve stem extending through the barrel portion and outwardlythrough the rear end thereof. The movement of the valve stem iscontrolled by a pivoted trigger lever which enables the user to grip thehandle portion and put their palm on the trigger to adjust the waterstream issuing from the nozzle. A spring maintains the trigger lever inan outward position keeping the valve closed. By squeezing the triggerlever, a user will cause water to flow out of the barrel portion.

[0004] However, such trigger hose nozzles require continuous pressure onthe lever to maintain fluid flow. This results in fatigue eventually forlong term use. Also such pressure is difficult to maintain and does notpermit full attention to the control of the fluid flow rate.

[0005] Certain pistol-grip type hose nozzles allow a user to separatelycontrol the pattern of the water stream and flow cutoff. In thesenozzles, a bail is utilized to lock the trigger into a fully openposition. A flow control knob is located on the nozzle body separatelyfrom the trigger. Rotating the knob varies the fluid flow rate in thevalve by rotating a flow cylinder. The flow cylinder has an outlet tothe barrel and a port which is accessed by the flow in the handleportion by opening the valve. Once the knob is turned the flow cylinderrotates and exposes some or all of the port to water flow thus varyingthe flow rate. The bail affords ease of use because the user does nothave to keep constant pressure on the trigger. Additionally, a user mayoperate the pistol nozzle with only one hand since only one hand isrequired both to hold the nozzle and rotate the knob to actuate thewater stream.

[0006] However, these nozzles still depend on initial squeezing pressureto lock the trigger into place. Additionally, the user does not haveinstantaneous control over the fluid flow.

[0007] Thus, there exists a need for a one touch valve which activatesor stops water flow from a single actuation. There also exists a needfor a valve with one touch flow/cutoff in combination with a flow ratecontrol. There is also a need for an integrated control with flow/cutoffas well as flow rate control. There is additionally a need for a flowcontrol valve which uses a pilot-type valve to actuate the main valve.There is also a need for a one touch control which providesinstantaneous shutoff or turn on of fluid flow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] These needs may be addressed by the present invention which maybe embodied in a one touch valve for activating fluid flow between aninlet conduit and an outlet conduit. The valve has a flow cylinderdefining an inflow chamber in fluid communication with the inletconduit. The flow cylinder also has an outflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the outlet conduit. The flow cylinder includes an endplate and an intermediate plate having a center collar with an aperture.A flexible diaphragm has a sealing surface in contact with the collar tocreate a seal, an opposite surface, and an aperture extendingtherethrough. The diaphragm also has an edge coupled to the intermediateplate and a small diameter hole providing fluid communication betweenthe inflow chamber and an intermediate chamber defined by theintermediate plate and the flow cylinder. A plunger having a contactsurface and an opposite diaphragm contact surface is provided. Thediaphragm contact surface creates a seal with the opposite surface ofthe diaphragm. A shaft having one end connected to the plunger extendsthrough the aperture of the diaphragm. A spring is located between theend plate of the flow cylinder and the contact surface of the plunger.Pushing the shaft causes the plunger to separate from the diaphragmcreating fluid pressure on the diaphragm contact surface to push theplunger toward the end plate. The spring is compressed which causes thediaphragm to separate from the collar causing fluid to flow from theinflow chamber through the aperture to the outflow chamber. Releasingthe shaft causes the spring to decompress, forcing the plunger anddiaphragm away from the end plate re-establishing the seal between thesealing surface with the collar preventing fluid flow from theintermediate chamber to the outflow chamber.

[0009] The invention may also be embodied in a flow control valve unitallowing a user to control the fluid flow rate and cutoff or activatefluid flow between an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit. The controlvalve unit has an exterior cylinder with a side wall having an outerinlet aperture in fluid communication with the inlet conduit. A flowcylinder is rotatably mounted within the side wall of the exteriorcylinder. The flow cylinder defines an inflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the inlet conduit and an outflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the outlet conduit. The flow cylinder includes aninner inlet aperture which allows fluid communication to an inflowchamber, an end plate and an intermediate plate having a center collarwith an aperture. Rotating the flow cylinder changes the area of theinner inlet aperture in fluid communication to the outer inlet aperturein order to control flow rate. A flexible diaphragm has a sealingsurface in contact with the collar to create a seal, an oppositesurface, and an aperture extending therethrough. The diaphragm also hasan edge coupled to the intermediate plate and a small diameter holeproviding fluid contact between the inflow chamber and an intermediatechamber defined by the intermediate plate and the flow cylinder. Aplunger has a contact surface and an opposite diaphragm contact surface.The diaphragm contact surface creates a seal with the opposite surfaceof the diaphragm. A shaft is provided having one end connected to theplunger and extending through the aperture of the diaphragm. A spring islocated between the end plate of the flow cylinder and the contactsurface of the plunger. Pushing the shaft causes the plunger to separatefrom the diaphragm creating fluid pressure on the diaphragm contactsurface to push the plunger toward the end plate. The spring iscompressed and the diaphragm separates from the collar causing fluid toflow from the inflow chamber through the aperture to the outflowchamber. Releasing the shaft causes the spring to decompress, forcingthe plunger and diaphragm away from the end plate, re-establishing theseal between the sealing surface with the collar preventing fluid flowfrom the intermediate chamber to the outflow chamber.

[0010] The invention may further be embodied in a pistol-grip hosenozzle allowing flow control. The nozzle has a hand-grip portionconnectable to a fluid source and a barrel portion having a fluidoutlet. An exterior cylinder is coupled to the hand-grip portion and thebarrel portion. The exterior cylinder has a side wall with an outerinlet aperture in fluid communication with the hand-grip portion. A flowcylinder is rotatably mounted within the side wall of the exteriorcylinder. The flow cylinder defines an inflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the hand-grip portion and an outflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the barrel portion. The flow cylinder includes aninner inlet aperture which allows fluid communication to an inflowchamber, an end plate and an intermediate plate having a center collarwith an aperture. A flexible diaphragm has a sealing surface in contactwith the collar to create a seal, an opposite surface, and an apertureextending therethrough. The diaphragm has an edge coupled to theintermediate plate and a small diameter hole providing fluid contactbetween the inflow chamber and an intermediate chamber defined by theintermediate plate of the flow cylinder. A plunger has a contact surfaceand an opposite diaphragm contact surface. The diaphragm contact surfacecreates a seal with the opposite surface of the diaphragm. A shaft hasone end connected to the plunger and extends through the aperture of thediaphragm. A spring is located between the end plate of the flowcylinder and the contact surface of the plunger. Pushing the shaftcauses the plunger to separate from the diaphragm creating fluidpressure on the diaphragm contact surface to push the plunger toward theend plate and compresses the spring. This causes the diaphragm toseparate from the collar causing fluid to flow from the inflow chamberthrough the aperture to the outflow chamber. Releasing the shaft causesthe spring to decompress, forcing the plunger and diaphragm away fromthe end plate re-establishing the seal between the sealing surface withthe collar preventing fluid flow from the intermediate chamber to theoutflow chamber.

[0011] The invention may also be embodied in a valve for one touch fluidactivation or cutoff and flow rate control between an inlet conduit andan outlet conduit. The valve has a valve housing having a side wall anda top member on the valve housing. A central conduit is provided influid communication with the inlet conduit. The central cylinder has anopen top inlet with a shoulder. A flexible diaphragm is located betweenthe valve housing and the top member. The diaphragm and valve housingdefine a lower chamber in fluid communication with the outlet conduit.An upper chamber is defined by the diaphragm and the valve housing. Aplunger is connected to the diaphragm having a top surface and a bottomplug which forms a seal with the shoulder of the central conduit. Asmall hole in the plunger provides fluid communication from the centralconduit through the top surface to the upper chamber. The plunger anddiaphragm are capable of movement away from the shoulder of the centralconduit to allow fluid flow from the central conduit to the lowerchamber. A spring is located between the top surface of the plunger andthe top member. A pilot chamber is provided in fluid communication withthe lower chamber. A button chamber is provided in fluid communicationwith the upper chamber and having a hole providing fluid access to thepilot chamber. A pilot pin is provided which is movable in the buttonchamber between an open position allowing fluid access through the holeand a closed position plugging the hole. A flow rate control limits thedistance the plunger may be moved from the shoulder of the centralconduit. When the pilot pin is in the closed position, fluid pressure inthe upper chamber and force from the spring move the plunger against theshoulder of the central conduit preventing fluid flow to the lowerchamber. When the pilot pin is moved to the open position, fluid flowsfrom the upper chamber through the button chamber, pilot chamber and tothe lower chamber creating fluid pressure on the bottom plug of theplunger and separating the plunger from the shoulder of the centralconduit creating fluid flow between the central conduit and the lowerchamber.

[0012] The invention may further be embodied in a one touch water flowcontrol unit for activating fluid flow to a water-driven device. Theunit has an inlet coupler and an outlet coupler. A flow cylinder definesan inflow chamber in fluid communication with the inlet coupler and anoutflow chamber in fluid communication with the outlet coupler. The flowcylinder includes an end plate and an intermediate plate having a centercollar with an aperture. A flexible diaphragm is provided having asealing surface in contact with the collar to create a seal, an oppositesurface, an aperture extending therethrough and an edge coupled to theintermediate plate. The diaphragm also has a small diameter holeproviding fluid contact between the inflow chamber and an intermediatechamber defined by the intermediate plate of the flow cylinder. Aplunger is provided having a contact surface and an opposite diaphragmcontact surface, the diaphragm contact surface creating a seal with theopposite surface of the diaphragm. A shaft having one end connected tothe plunger extends through the aperture of the diaphragm. A spring islocated between the end plate of the flow cylinder and the contactsurface of the plunger. Pushing the shaft causes the plunger to separatefrom the diaphragm creating fluid pressure on the diaphragm contactsurface to push the plunger toward the end plate, compressing thespring, and causing the diaphragm to separate from the collar allowingfluid to flow from the inflow chamber through the aperture to theoutflow chamber. Releasing the shaft causes the spring to decompress,forcing the plunger and diaphragm away from the end platere-establishing the seal between the sealing surface with the collarpreventing fluid flow from the intermediate chamber to the outflowchamber.

[0013] It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following detailed description are not limiting butare intended to provide further explanation of the invention claimed.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute partof this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a furtherunderstanding of the method and system of the invention. Together withthe description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hose nozzle using a one touchcontrol valve according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015]FIG. 2 is a cutaway view of the hose nozzle of FIG. 1;

[0016]FIG. 3 is a cutaway closeup view of the one touch valve of FIG. 1;

[0017] FIGS. 4A-4C are cutaway closeup views of the one touch valve inFIG. 1 in various stages of opening and closing;

[0018]FIG. 5 is a side view of the use of a trigger to activate the onetouch control valve in FIG. 1;

[0019]FIG. 6 is a side view of the use of a slide control to activatethe one touch control valve in FIG. 1;

[0020]FIG. 7 is a cutaway side view of a rocker switch control toactivate the one touch control valve in FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 8 a cutaway side view of a hose nozzle using a squeezecontrol to activate a one touch control valve similar to that in FIG. 1;

[0022]FIG. 9 is a cutaway perspective view of a one touch valveintegrated with a flow control knob;

[0023]FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of a one touchvalve integrated with a flow control device;

[0024]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the flow control drum of the flowcontrol device in FIG. 10;

[0025]FIG. 12 is a perspective cutaway view of an alternate embodimentof a one touch valve integrated with a flow control device;

[0026]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of aseparate one touch valve and flow control dial on a pistol hose nozzle;

[0027]FIG. 14 is a cutaway view of the hose nozzle in FIG. 13;

[0028]FIG. 15 is a side cutaway view of another flow control unit with aone touch flow valve and a separate flow control unit;

[0029]FIG. 16 is a side cutaway view of another flow control unit with adial flow control and simultaneous actuation of water flow;

[0030]FIG. 17 is a top cutaway view along the line 17-17′ of the flowcontrol unit of FIG. 16;

[0031]FIG. 18 is a cutaway perspective view of a one touch valve using apilot valve according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 19 is a cutaway perspective view of a one touch valve using apilot valve and slide control according to another embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0033]FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an alternate push buttonstructure providing a visual indication of button position for the valvein FIG. 1;

[0034]FIGS. 21A & B are perspective views of another alternate pushbutton structure providing a visual indication of button position forthe valve in FIG. 1;

[0035]FIGS. 22A & B are perspective views of another alternate pushbutton structure providing a visual indication of the button in an onand off position for the valve in FIG. 1; and

[0036] FIGS. 23A-23K are perspective views of different examples ofapplications of a one touch flow valve.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0037] While the present invention is capable of embodiment in variousforms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be describeda presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the presentdisclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention,and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodimentillustrated.

[0038] Referring now more particularly to FIGS. 1-2 of the drawings,there is shown therein a pistol-grip hose nozzle, generally indicated at10, incorporating a one touch fluid flow valve 12 which is an embodimentof the present invention. As shown, the hose nozzle 10 includes a fixedbody structure 14 including a hand-grip portion 16 and a barrel portion18 extending at an angle from the hand-grip portion 16. The bodystructure 14 defines an interior fluid passage, generally indicated at20, including an inlet passage portion 22 extending through thehand-grip portion 16 and an outlet passage portion 24 extending from theinlet passage portion 22 through the barrel portion 18. The inletpassage portion 22 has an inlet end formed with interior threads 23which constitute a female coupling or fitting for inter-engaging with aconventional male hose fitting (not shown) for purposes of communicatinga supply of fluid under pressure with the inlet passage 22. Of courseother types of connections may be used such as a quick connect toconnect a hose to the hose nozzle 10.

[0039] The forward end of the outlet passage portion 24 has a threadedinterior surface 25 which also serves as a female coupling or fittingfor different types of spray heads. Such heads may include a singlepattern nozzle, a rotational sleeve on a stem for a sharp to conicalstream (shown) or a multi-pattern head. Of course, other connectors suchas a male coupling may be used on the outlet message 24 to attach sprayheads. The fixed body structure 14 is preferably a casting of zincalthough other materials such as brass or plastic may be used. Anelastomeric resilient covering 26 is placed over the fixed bodystructure to provide shock protection for the fixed body structure andthe valve unit 12. The resilient covering 26 also provides a contactsurface for a user and insulates the user from temperature extremes. Thepart of the covering 26 over the hand-grip portion 16 may be texturedfor a better grip.

[0040] The valve unit 12 is interposed in the flow passage 20 betweenthe inlet flow passage 22 and the outlet passage 24 in order to controlthe fluid flow from the inlet flow passage 22 to the outlet passage 24.FIG. 3 shows a close up of the valve unit 12. An exterior cylindricalwall 30 is formed between the inlet passage 22 and the outlet passage24. The exterior cylindrical wall 30 has a valve chamber 32 which allowsthe mounting of a rotatable flow cylinder 34. The flow cylinder 34divides the valve chamber 32 into an inflow chamber 36 in fluidcommunication with the inlet passage 22 and an outflow chamber 38 whichis in fluid communication with the outlet passage 24. An intermediatechamber 40 is provided between the inflow chamber 36 and the outflowchamber 38. The cylindrical wall 30 has an outer inlet aperture 42 andthe rotatable flow cylinder 34 has an inner inlet aperture 43 whichpreferably has the same cross-sectional shape as the outer inletaperture 42. The inlet apertures 42 and 43 allow fluid to flow to theinflow chamber 36. The bottom of the flow cylinder 34 has an outlet 44allowing fluid to flow to the outlet passage 24. The flow cylinder 34 ispreferably molded of plastic.

[0041] The valve unit 12 has a shaft 46, a plunger 48, a diaphragm 50and a flow control adaptor 52. The flow cylinder 34 has a dividing wall54 which isolates the inflow chamber 36 from the outflow chamber 38. Theflow cylinder 34 has a cap member 56 which has a circular bottom 58 anda side wall 60. The top of the side wall 60 forms a circular shoulder 62which provides support for the flow control adaptor 52. The center ofthe circular bottom 58 has a collar 64 which has a shoulder 66 for theseating of the diaphragm 50. The collar 64 also has a center aperture 68which provides fluid access between the outflow chamber 38 and thediaphragm 50. The bottom 58 also has an annular ridge 70 which alongwith the side wall 60 forms an annular groove 72 to seat the diaphragm50. The bottom 58 has a fluid flow aperture 74 formed between the collar64 and the annular ridge 70 to provide fluid access from the inflowchamber 36.

[0042] The inflow chamber 36 is bounded by the dividing wall 54, acylindrical lower wall 76 and a bottom plate 78. The lower wall 76 hasan upper annular groove 80 and a lower annular groove 82. An O-ring 84is installed in the upper annular groove 80 and an O-ring 86 isinstalled in the lower annular groove 82. The O-rings 84 and 86 providea fluid tight seal between the flow cylinder 34 and the exteriorcylindrical wall 30.

[0043] The plunger 48 has cylindrical body 88 with a conical bottom 90and a flat top surface 92. An annular shoulder 94 is formed just belowthe top surface 92. The conical bottom 90 has a hole 96 into which oneend of the shaft 46 is inserted. The opposite end of the shaft 46 isconnected to a push button actuator 98. The plunger 46 is seated on thediaphragm 50 via the conical bottom 90. The diaphragm 50 is molded of aflexible material which is preferably rubber or a thermal plasticelastomer. The diaphragm 50 has a center plug 100 which forms a conicalcenter socket 102 and an opposite sealing surface 104. The conicalbottom 90 of the plunger 48 conforms to the conical center socket 102.The sealing surface 104 rests on the shoulder 66 of the flow cylinder34. The center plug 98 has an aperture 106 through which the shaft 46 isinserted. The diaphragm 50 has a side flap 108 and a radial nub 110. Thenub 110 is located radially between the side flap 108 and the centerplug 100. A relatively small diameter hole 112 is located in the nub 108which allows fluid flow from the inflow chamber 36 to the intermediatechamber 40. A relatively small diameter hole 114 is located in the nub108 diametrically across from the small hole 112. The small hole 114also allows fluid flow from the inflow chamber 36 to the intermediatechamber 40.

[0044] The flow control adaptor 52 has a bottom cylinder 116 which has abottom rim 118. The bottom rim 118 locks the side flap 108 of thediaphragm 50 in the annular groove 72 of the flow cylinder 34. Thebottom rim 118 also is coupled to the side wall 60 of the flow cylinder34. The bottom cylinder 116 has an annular ridge 120 which forms ashoulder 122. A washer 124 is seated on the shoulder 122 to provide aretainer for the flow control adaptor 52. The flow control adaptor 52also has an upper cylinder 126 with atop end 128. A cylindrical body 130is suspended under the top end 128. The cylindrical body 130 has acontact surface 132. The cylindrical body 130 also has a hole 134 withinterior threads 136. A knob 138 is inserted over the upper cylinder 126of the flow control adaptor 52. The knob 138 has a recess 140 whichaccommodates the head of a screw 142 which attaches the knob 138 to thebody 130 via the hole 134. Of course other fasteners such as a bolt or aself tap screw may be used to attach the knob 138. A spring 144 islocated around the body 130 and is seated on the annular shoulder 94 ofthe plunger 48.

[0045] The push button actuator 98 is installed within a button chamber150 which is connected to the bottom of the exterior cylindrical wall30. The button chamber 150 has a cylindrical inner compartment 152 whichis bounded by the bottom plate 78 of the flow cylinder 34 and a buttonsurface 154 with a circular hole 156 therethrough. The shaft 46 isinserted through a hole 158 in the bottom plate 78. The push buttonactuator 98 has a cap 160 which contacts the end of the shaft 46.

[0046] The cap 160 has a series of radial tabs 162 which each interlockwith a pattern of deep slots, angled ridges and shallow slots on thesurface of the inner compartment 152. The cap 160 thus may be rotated inthe chamber 150 between the bottom plate 78 and the button surface 154.A button cover 164 is attached to the cap 160 and extends out of thecircular hole 156. A spring 166 is provided between the interior of thebutton cover 164 and the cap 160 in order to bias the button cover 164in an outward position as shown in FIG. 3. Pushing the button cover 164causes the cap 160 to be rotated on the ridges and the tabs 162 to beseated in the deep slots on the ridges on the inner compartment 152.This locks the cap 160 into an inward position against the bottom plate78. Pushing the button cover 164 again causes the tabs 162 of the cap160 to be removed from the deep slots, where they contact a ridge,rotating the cap 160, until the tabs 162 are seated in the shallowslots. This unlocks the cap 160 and allows its movement to the outwardposition.

[0047] The flow control adaptor 52 and the flow control cylinder 34allows a user to regulate the flow rate from the inlet passage 22 to theoutlet passage 24. A user adjusts the flow rate by rotating the knob 138and thus rotating the attached flow control adaptor and flow controlcylinder 34. When the knob 138 is rotated, the inner inlet aperture 43is rotated in relation to the outer inlet aperture 42. The flow rate ofthe valve unit 12 is thus proportional to the amount of cross-sectionalarea of the outer inlet aperture 43 which is exposed to the inner inletaperture 42. This area may be adjusted by rotating the flow controlcylinder 34 via the knob 138.

[0048] The operation of the one touch valve will be explained withreference to FIGS. 4A-4D which show the various positions of the valveunit 12. FIG. 4A shows the valve unit 12 in a closed position preventingfluid flow to the outlet passage 24. Fluid enters the inflow chamber 36via the inlet aperture 42. The fluid flows through the small holes 112and 114 in the nub 108 of the diaphragm 50 into the intermediate chamber40. The fluid pressure pushes the flat top surface 92 of the plunger 48.This forces the conical bottom 90 of the plunger 48 against the conicalcenter socket 102 of the diaphragm 50 forming a seal to prevent anyfluid flow through the aperture 106. The fluid pressure also causes theopposite sealing surface 104 of the diaphragm to form a seal against theshoulder 66 of the flow control cylinder 34. This seal prevents fluidflow through the center aperture 68 in the collar 64. The fluid pressurepushing the plunger 48 against the diaphragm 50 is assisted by lightpressure applied by the spring 144.

[0049] In order to open the valve, a user depresses the button cover 164and therefore rotates cap 160 so the tabs 162 catch the deep slots onthe ridges of the inner surface as shown in FIG. 3 and thus locks thecap 160 against the bottom plate 78. As shown in FIG. 4B, this causesthe shaft 46 to push the plunger 48 away from the diaphragm 50. Themovement of the plunger 48 away from the diaphragm 50 causes a passageto open between the conical bottom 90 of the plunger 48 and the conicalcenter socket 102 of the diaphragm 50. The fluid flows from theintermediate chamber 40 between the conical bottom 90 and the conicalcenter socket 102 through the aperture 106 into the outflow chamber 38.Fluid still flows from the inflow chamber 36 through the small holes 112and 114 to the intermediate chamber 40, but the intermediate chamber 40is drained faster by the flow out through the aperture 106 due to therelatively small size of the holes 112 and 114. Thus, the fluid flowingbetween the conical bottom 90 and the conical center socket 102 createsgreater pressure at the bottom of the diaphragm 50 and is sufficient toovercome the combined force from the fluid pressure on the top surface92 and the spring 144. The diaphragm 50 is thus deformed to move upward,causing the sealing surface 104 to separate from the shoulder 66 of theflow control cylinder 34. The separation of the sealing surface 104 andthe shoulder 66 creates direct fluid flow between the inflow chamber 36and the outflow chamber 38. The fluid now flows from the inflow chamber36, between the sealing surface 104 and the shoulder 66, through thecenter aperture 68 and into the outflow chamber 38. The additional fluidpressure forces the diaphragm 50 upward creating contact between theconical bottom 90 of the plunger 48 and the center socket 102 of thediaphragm 50. This creates a seal preventing fluid from flowing out ofthe aperture 106.

[0050] The resulting open position of the valve unit 12 is shown in FIG.4C. The top surface 92 of the plunger 48 is pushed against the contactsurface 132 of the flow control adaptor 52 by the shaft 46 and thebutton cap 160 (not shown in FIG. 4C). The pressure created by the fluidflow through the passage created by the separation of the sealingsurface 104 and the shoulder 66 of the collar 64 serves to deform thediaphragm 50 and push the plunger 48 against the contact surface 132.The fluid pressure pushing down on the diaphragm 50 is negligible sincethe fluid flowing into the intermediate chamber 40 is minimized due tothe small diameter of the holes 112 and 114. The spring force from thespring 144 is insufficient to overcome the upward force of the shaft 46and that generated by the fluid flowing from the inflow chamber 36 tothe outflow chamber 38 through the center aperture 68.

[0051] In order to open the valve unit 12, a user will push the buttoncover 164 which rotates the cap 160 and moves the tabs 162 into theshallow slots of the ridges of the inner compartment 152. This causesthe cap 160 to move to an outward position. The shaft 46 and cap 160thus no longer hold the plunger 48 against the contact surface 132. Theforce of the compressed spring 144 then pushes the plunger 48 away fromthe contact surface 132 as shown in FIG. 4D. This creates fluid flowinto the intermediate chamber 40 and between the contact surface 132 andthe top 92 of the plunger 48. The fluid flow creates pressure whichpushes both the plunger 48 and the diaphragm 50 down shutting the fluidflow between the inflow chamber 36 and the outflow chamber 38 throughthe aperture 68.

[0052] The use of fluid pressure and the locking button cap 160 relievesa user from the need to hold down the button actuator 98 in order tokeep the valve unit 12 open. The relatively low force exerted by thespring 144 makes the pressure required on the button actuator 98 to below in order to either open or close the valve unit 12. Additionally,the actuation of the valve is nearly instantaneous causing eithercomplete fluid flow or cutoff rapidly.

[0053] It is to be understood that the shaft 46 may be actuated by othermechanical devices. FIG. 5 shows a trigger 170 which is used inconjunction with a hose nozzle 172. The hose nozzle 172 has an inlet 174and an outlet 176. A one touch valve 178 similar to the valve unit 12regulates water flow and cutoff between the inlet 174 and the outlet176. A push button 180 activates the flow and cuts off the fluid flow ina manner identical to the cap 160 and button cover 164 in FIGS. 1-4. Thetrigger 170 rotates on a pivot 182 and has a hand-grip 184. When a usersqueezes and releases the trigger 170, the button 180 is depressed thuseither activating or cutting off fluid flow through the outlet 176 ofthe hose nozzle 172. Squeezing and releasing the trigger 170 again cutsoff or activates fluid flow.

[0054]FIG. 6 shows a slide switch 190 which has a thumb tab 192. Thethumb tab 192 has an inclined plane surface 194 which is in contact witha button 196. The button 196 activates the flow and cuts off the fluidflow on a one touch valve unit 198 in a manner identical to the cap 160and button cover 164 in relation to the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. Theslide switch 190 moves on a track 200 which is formed on a side wall202. The slide switch 190 and is biased in a backward position by aspring 204. The slide switch 190 may be moved in a forward position by auser's finger or thumb on an indented surface 206 which causes theinclined plane 194 to move forward, depressing the button 196 thuseither activating or cutting off fluid flow. In order to cut off oractivate the fluid flow, the switch 190 is merely moved forward again todepress the button 196 again. It is to be understood that withappropriate modifications, moving the switch 190 backward may activatethe button 196.

[0055]FIG. 7 shows the use of a rocker switch 210 with the valve unit 12in FIGS. 1-4. In FIG. 7, like numbers represent like elements to thosein FIGS. 1-4. The rocker switch 210 may be articulated on a pivot point212. The rocker switch 210 has a contact surface 214 with an indentation216 which conforms to a user's finger. A lateral groove 218 is formedunderneath the contact surface 214. One end of the rocker switch 210 isattached to a keyed shaft 220. The keyed shaft 220 has a lateral pin 222which is locked into the groove 218 of the rocker switch 210. The otherend of the shaft 220 extends to the shaft which is in turn connected tothe plunger 48 and activates the diaphragm 50.

[0056] The shaft 220 has a pair of intermediate pins 224 and 226 whichare coupled to a metal spring strip 228 via a slot 230. The shaft 220 isinstalled by inserting the pin 224 through the slot 230 and turning theshaft 220 to orient the lateral pin 222 to the groove 218 and thusholding the spring 228 between the pins 224 and 226. The spring 228 hasopposite ends 232 and 234 which are mounted on opposite ends of thebutton chamber 150 causing compression of the spring 228. The spring 228is normally biased to keep the shaft 220 in an up position.

[0057] When the rocker switch 210 is depressed on the pivot point 212,the shaft 220 is depressed thus either activating or cutting off fluidflow through the valve unit 12. This action compresses the spring 228.When pressure applied by pivoting the rocker switch 210, the springforce from the spring 228 pops the shaft 220 into its original position.

[0058]FIG. 8 shows a hose nozzle 240 with a main body 242. The main body242 forms an inlet passage 244 and an outlet passage 246. The inletpassage 244 has a connector 248 which in this example is a femalethreaded socket for a hose. The outlet passage 246 has a connector 250which in this example is a female threaded socket attached to anadjustable spray head 252 which when rotated allows variation of theflow from nozzle 240 from a fine spray to a direct stream. The main body242 has an elastomeric molded outer covering 254 which serves asinsulation as well as forms a series of hand-grips 256 for the user'shand.

[0059] The water flow from the inlet passage 244 to the outlet passageis controlled by a valve unit 258 which is similar to the valve unit 12in FIGS. 1-4. The valve unit 258 has a stem 260 which is coupled to apush-push unit 262 similar to the cap 160 and cover 164 of FIGS. 1-4.The stem 260 moves a diaphragm 264 to operate the valve unit 258. Thepush-push unit 262 has a button 266 which is in close proximity to astrip spring 268 which may be deformed to contact the button 266. Thevalve unit 258 is activated by a user squeezing the finger grips 256 ofthe elastic cover 254 which pushes the strip spring 268 into contactwith the button 266 to turn the valve unit 258 on or off. Of course, theswitching devices shown in FIGS. 5-8 are merely illustrative; it is tobe understood that other switching mechanisms may be used to activatethe one touch valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4.

[0060]FIG. 9 shows an alternative configuration of a combination flowcontrol and one touch flow valve 300. As in FIGS. 1-3, the valve 300allows fluid flow from an inlet member 302 to an outlet member 304. Auser may control the flow rate via a flow control knob 308 whichfunctions similarly to the flow control knob 138 in FIGS. 1-3. Thecenter of the flow control knob 308 has a cutoff/flow button 310 whichallows one touch flow and flow cutoff between the inlet member 302 andthe outlet member 304.

[0061] A housing 312 is formed between the inlet member 302 and theoutlet member 304. The housing 312 has a flow control cylinder 314 whichdivides the housing 312 into an inflow chamber 316 in fluid contact withthe inlet member 302 and an outflow chamber 318 in fluid contact withthe outlet member 304. An intermediate chamber 320 is provided betweenthe inflow chamber 316 and the outflow chamber 318. The housing 312 hasan outer inlet aperture 322 which allows fluid to flow to the inflowchamber 316. The opposite side of the housing 312 has an outlet 324allowing fluid to flow to the outlet member 304. The flow controlcylinder 314 has an inner inlet aperture 323 which is preferably thesame size and shape as the outer inlet aperture 322.

[0062] The valve 300 further includes a shaft 326 which has one end incontact with the cutoff/flow button 310. The other end of the shaft 326is connected to a plunger 328. The plunger 328 is in contact with adiaphragm 330. A flow control socket 332 is attached to the flow controlknob 308. The flow control cylinder 314 has a dividing wall 334 whichisolates the inflow chamber 316 from the outflow chamber 318. The flowcontrol cylinder 314 has a cup member 336 which has a circular plate 338and a side wall 340. The top of the side wall 340 forms a circularshoulder 342. The center of the circular plate 338 has a collar 344which has a shoulder 346 for the seating of the diaphragm 330. Thecollar 344 also has a center aperture 348 which provides fluid accessbetween the outflow chamber 318 and the diaphragm 330. The circularplate 338 also has an annular ridge 350 which along with the side wall340 forms an annular groove 352 to seat the diaphragm 330. The circularplate 338 also has a fluid flow aperture 354 formed between the collar344 and the annular ridge 350 to provide fluid access from the inflowchamber 316.

[0063] The plunger 328 has a cylindrical body 356 with a conical bottom358 and an opposite flat surface 360. An annular shoulder 362 is formedjust below the flat surface 360. The shaft 326 is inserted in theconical bottom 358. The diaphragm 330 has a center plug 364 which formsa conical center socket 366 and an opposite sealing surface 368. Theconical bottom 358 of the plunger 328 conforms to the conical centersocket 366 of the diaphragm 330. The sealing surface 368 rests on theshoulder 346 of the flow control cylinder 314. The center plug 364 hasan aperture 370 through which the shaft 326 is inserted.

[0064] The diaphragm 330 is made of a flexible material which ispreferably rubber or an elastomeric polymer and has a side flap 372 anda radial nub 374. The nub 374 is located between the side flap 372 andthe center plug 364. Two relatively small diameter holes 376 and 378 arelocated diametrically opposite each other on the nub 374 to which allowfluid flow from the inflow chamber 316 to the intermediate chamber 320.

[0065] A cap member 380 is roughly cylindrical with a closed end 382 andan open end 384 bounded by a rim 386. The rim 386 forms a shoulder 388which mates with the shoulder 342 of the flow control cylinder 314. Theside flap 372 of the diaphragm 330 is inserted in the annular groove 352and is held in place by the rim 386 of the cap member 380. The capmember 380 also has a spring holder 390 suspended from the closed end382. A spring 392 is seated on the shoulder 362 of the plunger 328.

[0066] The flow control cylinder 314 has a cylindrical cap 394 which hasa center hole 396 through which the shaft 326 is inserted. The cap 394has an exterior surface 398 with an annular groove 400. An O-ring 402 isinstalled in the annular groove 400 to provide a fluid tight sealbetween the flow control cylinder 314 and the housing 312.

[0067] The flow control socket 332 is formed with a bottom plate 404 anda side wall 406. The opposite side of the bottom plate 404 has a collar408 with a center hole 410 through which the shaft 326 is inserted. Thecollar 408 and the hole 410 form an annular groove 412 which has anO-ring 414 to provide a seal against the shaft 326. The side wall 406has an exterior groove 416 which holds an O-ring 418 to provide a fluidtight seal between the flow control socket 332 and the housing 302. Thecollar 408 and the side wall 406 of bottom plate 404 rests on thecylindrical cap 394 of the flow control cylinder 314. A washer 420 isinstalled around the side wall 406 to lock the flow control socket 332in place.

[0068] The flow control knob 308 is inserted over the side wall 406 ofthe flow control socket 332. The push button 310 is installed within abutton chamber 422 which is formed by the flow control knob 308 and thebottom plate 404 of the flow control cylinder 314. The flow/cutoffbutton 310 is connected to a cap 424 which is in contact with the end ofthe shaft 326. The cap 424 has a series of annular tabs 426 which haveroughly the same diameter as the button chamber 422. The annular tabs426 are seated on a ridge in the button compartment which has a seriesof deep and shallow slots for the annular tabs 426 to rest in. The cap424 thus may be rotated to an inward and outward position in the chamber422 when the button 310 is depressed. A spring 428 is provided betweenthe cap 424 and the push button 310 in order to bias the button 310 inan outward position as shown in FIG. 8.

[0069] The operation of the valve 300 is similar to that of the valveunit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. Flow control may be achieved by turning the flowcontrol knob 308 thereby rotating the flow control cylinder 314 and flowcontrol socket 332 and regulating the flow rate through the outer inletaperture 322 by the alignment of the inner inlet aperture 323. When thevalve 300 is closed, pushing the button 310 will cause the plunger 328to separate from the diaphragm 330 creating fluid flow through theaperture 370. The pressure from this flow causes the diaphragm 330 todeform, creating fluid flow through the aperture 370. The fluid pressureon the plunger 328 and the diaphragm 330 overcomes the fluid pressure inthe intermediate chamber 320 to compress the spring 392. The diaphragm330 remains deformed and the plunger 328 is maintained in a position tocreate fluid flow through the center aperture 348 by the shaft 326 beinglocked in place by the cap 424 whose tabs 426 are locked in the shallowslots. Pushing the button 310 again will cause the tabs 426 to rotatedto the deep slots. This causes the cap 424 to move to the outwardposition, releasing the spring 392 which forces the plunger 328 anddiaphragm 330 down, cutting off fluid flow through the center aperture348. The fluid pressure on the diaphragm 330 and the flat surface 360 ofthe plunger 328 causes a seal between the diaphragm 330 and the centeraperture 348 cutting off fluid flow to the outflow chamber 318.

[0070] Simultaneous flow rate control and flow cutoff may be performedin other different configurations other than the valve unit 12 in FIGS.1-4 or the integrated control valve 300 shown in FIG. 9. FIGS. 10-11show a cutaway side view and a perspective view of a rotating flowcontrol 430. The rotating flow control unit 430 provides both flow rateas well as flow shutoff control between an inlet conduit 432 and anoutlet conduit 434. The rotating flow control unit 430 has a flowcontrol drum 436 which is mounted to rotate on a pivot point 438. Theflow control drum 436 has a circular wall 440 which has an inlet 442.The circular wall 440 is in sealed contact with a wall 444 which plugsthe inlet conduit 432. The wall 444 has an aperture 446 which isapproximately the same area cross-section as the inlet 442. By rotatingthe flow control drum 436 on the pivot point 438 and exposing increasingor decreasing areas of the cross-section of the inlet 442 to fluid flowfrom the aperture 446, the fluid flow rate through the flow control drum436 may be regulated. The fluid flows out from the flow control drum tothe outlet conduit 434.

[0071] The flow control drum 436 has a cutoff valve 450 which isinterposed between the inlet 432 and the outlet conduit 434. The cutoffvalve 450 is one touch activated with a diaphragm, plunger and interiorconfiguration similar to that of the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4 above.These components are not shown here for simplicity of explanation. Thecutoff valve 450 has a push button 452 which extends from the circularwall 440. When pushed, the push button 450 activates the flow and cutsoff the fluid flow in a manner identical to the cap 160 and button cover164 in FIGS. 1-4. The push button 452 is seated in a detent member 454which extends from the circular wall 440. The detent member 454 has aridged surface 456 to allow for better control of the drum by a user'sthumb or finger. The detent member 454 is rotated with the drum 436between two stop members 458 and 460. The flow rate varies depending onthe position of the detent member 454 between the stop members 458(fully open) and 460 (fully closed).

[0072] Another alternative combination flow rate control and shutoffvalve unit is shown in conjunction with a adjustable flow hose nozzle462 in FIG. 12. The hose nozzle 462 has an inlet portion 464 and anoutlet portion 466. The outlet portion 466 is coupled to a nozzle head468. The flow rate and flow cutoff is controlled by a one touch flowvalve unit 470. The valve unit 470 has a rotatable flow cylinder 472which is mounted on a valve seat 474. The valve seat 474 has an outeraperture 476 in fluid communication with the inlet portion 464 and theflow cylinder 472 has a corresponding inner aperture 478. The flow rateis adjusted by rotating the flow cylinder 472 and exposing part to allof the inner aperture 478 to the outer aperture 476. The fluid flowthrough the flow cylinder 472 to the outlet portion 466 is controlled bya diaphragm 480 which functions similarly to the valve unit 12 in FIGS.1-4.

[0073] The ends of the cylinder 472 each have a hollow shaft 482 and484. The hollow shafts 482 and 484 are attached to dials 486 and 488respectively. The dials 486 and 488 each may be turned which rotate theflow cylinder 472 in relation to the valve seat 474 which controls theflow rate. The diaphragm and thus flow through the cylinder 472 iscontrolled by a horizontal shaft 490 which extends through the dial 486.The dial 486 has a flat side surface 492 which holds a control buttonunit 494. The control button unit 494 is a push-push unit whichactivates and cuts off flow through the flow cylinder 472 in a mannersimilar to that of the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. The dials 486 and 488allows a user to activate fluid flow by the control button unit 494 aswell as regulate flow rate by turning the dials 486 and 488. A strap(not shown) may connect the dials 486 and 488 to assist in ambidextrousflow control operation.

[0074] The one touch control and the flow rate controls may be separatedfrom each other as well. FIGS. 13-14 shows a pistol hose nozzle 500 withboth one touch flow cutoff control and a separate flow rate control. Thepistol hose nozzle 500 has a rubber boot 502 which is connected to abutton (not shown) of a one touch valve unit 504 which functions in amanner similar to the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. The pistol hose nozzle500 also has a pair of side dials 506 and 508 allow flow rate control.Rotating the side dials 506 and 508 varies the rate of fluid flow fromthe hose nozzle 500.

[0075] The one touch valve unit 504 has an inlet 510 which leads to adiaphragm and plunger (not shown) similar to the valve unit 12 in FIGS.1-4. The fluid leaves the one touch valve unit 504 via an outlet 512.The dials 506 and 508 are coupled to a ball valve 514 which has aninterior passage 516. The ball valve 514 may be rotated to align theinterior passage 516 with the outlet 512 in order to control flow rate.The ball valve 514 is sealed within the interior of the pistol hosenozzle 500 via an O-ring 518.

[0076] Another example of separating the one touch flow cutoff and theflow rate control may be shown in the flow control configuration 520shown in FIG. 15. The flow control configuration 520 controls the fluidflow between an inlet 522 and an outlet 524. A flow control valve 526 isinterposed between the inlet 522 and the outlet 524. The flow controlvalve 526 is a ball valve in this example but a cylindrical valve orother flow control valve may be used. The ball valve 526 has a fluidflow passage 528 which may be rotated to be aligned with the inlet 522via a stem 530. The stem 530 is connected to a control knob 532.

[0077] After fluid exits the ball valve 526, it enters a fluidflow/cutoff valve 534 which operates similarly to the valve unit 12 inFIGS. 1-4. The fluid flow/cutoff valve 534 is activated using a pushbutton mechanism 536 which moves a plunger 538 and a diaphragm 540 inrelation to a valve chamber 542. It is to be understood that the fluidflow/cutoff valve 534 may be placed upstream of the ball valve 526.

[0078] A further combination flow rate and flow cutoff control 550 isshown in FIGS. 16-17. The flow rate between an inlet conduit 552 and anoutlet conduit 554 is controlled by a rotating knob 556. The flowcutoff/activation between the inlet conduit 552 and the outlet conduit554 is controlled by a cylindrical one touch cutoff valve 558. The fluidflow is activated or cutoff by pushing a pin 560 via a boot 562 whichcauses the cutoff valve 558 to function in a similar manner to the valveunit 12 in FIGS. 1-4.

[0079] The cutoff valve 558 is mounted within a horizontal cylindricalvalve seat 564. The valve seat 564 has an inlet aperture 566 and thecutoff valve has an inlet aperture 568. The cutoff valve 558 moves inthe valve seat 564 which aligns the inlet apertures 566 and 568 relativeto each other in order to regulate fluid flow. A series of O-rings 570,572 and 574 provides a water tight seal between the valve seat 564 andthe cutoff valve 558. The rotating knob 556 is connected to a shaft 566which in turn is mounted on the valve seat 564. The rotating knob 556has an upper surface 576 which has a number of indentations 578 tofacilitate gripping. The rotating knob 556 has a flat opposite surface580 which has an arced cam track 582. A pin 584 is connected to theexterior of the cutoff valve 558 and is moveable within a slot 586 onthe valve seat 564. The end of the pin 584 is inserted in the cam track582 and thus when the knob 556 is rotated, the pin moves in the slot 586thus moving the cutoff valve 558 relative to the valve seat 564. Thisadjusts the apertures 566 and 568 in order to regulate flow rate.

[0080] Another embodiment of the one touch valve is a valve unit 600which is shown in FIG. 18. The valve unit 600 regulates the fluid flowbetween an inlet conduit 602 and an outlet conduit 604. The valve unit600 has a one touch pilot valve control 606 and a flow control unit 608.The one touch pilot valve control 606 allows a user to cut off or enablethe flow of fluid between the inlet conduit 602 and the outlet conduit604. The flow control unit 608 has a rotating knob 610 which allows auser to control the flow rate of the fluid flowing between the inletconduit 602 and the outlet conduit 604.

[0081] The valve unit 600 has a valve housing 612 which defines a valvechamber 614. The valve chamber 614 has a circular top surface 616. Adiaphragm 618, which is made of a resilient flexible material preferablyrubber or an elastomeric polymer is seated on the circular top surface616. A top member 620 has a circular rim 622 which has a lower surface624 and an overhanging lip 626. The overhanging lip 626 pinches theedges of the diaphragm 618 between the lower surface 624 of the topmember 620 and the circular top surface 616 of the valve chamber 614.The top member 620, diaphragm 618 and valve housing 612 are joined by aseries of bolts 628 for turf requirements in this example. Of course itis to be understood that these components may be attached in other meanssuch as by sonic weld, bayonet, glue etc.

[0082] The inlet conduit 602 is connected to a central conduit which isa cylinder 630 in this example, but other shapes may be used. A lowerchamber 632 is defined by the central cylinder 630, the outside surfaceof the inlet conduit 602, and the bottom surface of the diaphragm 618.An upper chamber 634 is formed by the top member 620 and the top of thediaphragm 618. The central cylinder 630 has an outlet 636 providingfluid communication with the lower chamber 632 which is in fluidcommunication with the outlet conduit 604. The outlet 636 is formed by ashoulder 638. The diaphragm 618 has a center hole 640 which holds aplunger 642. The plunger 642 has a cylindrical core member 644 which isheld by the center hole 640 of the diaphragm 618. The core member 644 isconnected to a top disk 646 which has a flat top surface 648 and anopposite bottom disk 650 which has a plug 652 with a bottom surface 654forming a rim edge 656. The plug 652 has the same diameter as thecentral cylinder 630 and in combination with the rim edge 656 creates aseal with the shoulder 638 of the central cylinder 630. A pair of smalldiameter holes 658 and 660 extend through the top disk 646, core member644 and bottom disk 650 to provide fluid access between the centralcylinder 630 and the upper chamber 634.

[0083] The top member 620 has a pilot valve structure 662 extending fromthe circular rim 622. The pilot valve structure 662 is roughlycylindrical in shape and forms a button chamber 664 and a pilot chamber666. The button chamber 664 and the pilot chamber 666 are separated bythe edge of the diaphragm 618 which includes a hole 668. The hole 668provides fluid access between the button chamber 664 and the pilotchamber 666. A conduit 670 is located in the lip 626 of the top member620 which provides fluid access between the upper chamber 634 and thebutton chamber 664. A pilot pin 672 may be positioned up or down in thebutton chamber 664 to cover or uncover the hole 668. A slit 674 providesfluid access between the pilot chamber 666 and the lower chamber 632.

[0084] The pilot pin 672 has an annular ridge 676. A pin cap 678 isinstalled over the pilot pin 672 to rest on the annular ridge 676. Aspring 680 is installed between the cap 678 and the ridge 676. A stem682 is connected to the top of the cap 678. The stem 682 is connected toa button cover 684. The cap 678 has an exterior surface 686 with anannular groove 688. The annular groove 688 has an O-ring 690 to providea seal between the cap 678 and the pilot valve structure 662.

[0085] The top member 620 has a center collar 692 which has a socket 694with a threaded interior surface 696. The collar 692 has a lowershoulder 698. An inlet adjustment screw 700 intermeshes with thethreaded interior surface 696. The inlet adjustment screw 700 has acontact end 702. The contact end 702 may be fixed relative to the topsurface 648 of the plunger 642 by rotating the screw 700. The oppositeend of the screw 700 is coupled to the flow control knob 610. A spring704 is mounted around the inlet adjustment screw 700 between the lowershoulder 698 of the collar 692 and the top surface 648 of the plunger642. It is to be understood that other mechanisms may be used for theinlet adjustment screw to control flow such as a smooth shaft withappropriate mechanisms such as a slide switch or a toggle to adjust theposition of the shaft.

[0086] The valve unit 600 functions as follows. When the valve unit 600is closed, the pilot pin 672 is in a down position which plugs the hole668, preventing fluid flow between the button chamber 664 and the lowerchamber 632. The small diameter holes 658 and 660 provide fluid flow tothe upper chamber 634 via the inlet conduit 602 and the central cylinder630. The diaphragm 618 and the plunger 648 are thus sealed against theshoulder 638 of the central cylinder 630 by fluid pressure in the upperchamber 634 acting against the top surface 648 and the diaphragm 618 aswell as force from the spring 704. The seal prevents fluid from thecentral cylinder 630 from flowing to the lower chamber 632 and theoutflow conduit 604.

[0087] When the push button cover 684 is pushed, the pilot pin 672 isunlocked and is forced out of the hole 668 by the spring 680. Theopening of the hole 668 causes fluid flow from the upper chamber 634 tothe button chamber 664, through the hole 668, to the pilot chamber 656and through the slit 674 to the lower chamber 632. The draining of fluidfrom the upper chamber 634 causes a drop in pressure on the top surface648 of the plunger 642 and the diaphragm 618. The water pressure in thecentral cylinder 630 then forces the bottom surface 654 of the plunger642 off of the shoulder 638 of the central cylinder 630 and deforms thediaphragm 618 upward thereby opening the top of the central cylinder 630to fluid flow between the central cylinder 630 and the lower chamber 632leading to the outlet conduit 604. The resulting fluid pressure on thebottom surface 654 of the plunger 642 serves to keep the valve open byforcing the plunger 642 against the contact end 702 of the inletadjustment screw 700. This motion also compresses the spring 704 betweenthe top surface 648 of the plunger 648 and the shoulder 698 of thecollar 692.

[0088] When the button cover 684 is pushed again, the pilot pin 672 islocked down, compressing the spring 680 and plugging the hole 668.Sufficient force is accumulated by a combination of the compressedspring 704 and the fluid accumulating in the upper chamber 634 to pushthe plunger 642 down to the shoulder 638 of the cylinder 630 forming aseal and preventing fluid flow to the lower chamber 632.

[0089] The flow rate is regulated by turning the knob 610. Rotating theknob 610 causes the contact end 702 of the inlet adjustment screw 700 tobe moved relative to the top surface 648 of the plunger 642. Thisdistance determines how much space is created between the diaphragm 618and the plunger 642 and the shoulder 638 of the central cylinder 630.The flow rate will vary depending on the spacing between the plunger 642and the shoulder 638.

[0090]FIG. 19 shows a pilot-type flow control 750 similar to the flowcontrol 600 in FIG. 18. Like parts in FIG. 19 are labeled the same astheir counterparts in FIG. 18. The flow control 750 has a slide control752 for the regulation of flow rate. The slide control 750 allowscontrol of a modified inlet adjustment screw 754. The inlet adjustmentscrew 754 functions in an identical manner in regulating flow rate tothe inlet adjustment screw 700 in FIG. 15. The inlet adjustment screw754 has a contact end 756 which is in fixed relation to the top surface648 of the plunger 642. The inlet adjustment screw 754 has an oppositeend 758 with a gear 760.

[0091] The slide control 752 has a slider 762 which has a top surface764. The top surface 764 may be textured for better grip to a user'sfinger. An opposite bottom surface 766 has a rack 768 extending from it.One side of the rack 768 has gear teeth 770 while the opposite side ofthe rack 768 has a tab 772. The slider 762 is mounted on a support 774which has a horizontal slot 776. The tab 772 of the rack 768 is insertedin the slot 776 to allow the slider 762 to be articulated between thesides of the slot 776. The teeth of the gear 760 intermesh with theteeth 770 of the rack 768. Thus, the inlet adjustment screw 754 may berotated by moving the slider 762 within the slot 776. The flow rate ofthe valve is thus controlled by the slide control 750.

[0092] A cross-section exploded view of a modified cap 800 is shown inFIG. 20. The button unit 800 may be substituted for the cap 160 andbutton cover 164 of the valve unit 12 or of any of the other examplesgiven above. The button unit 800 has a cylindrical button cover 802which has a top surface 804 with a number of radial windows 806. Thebutton cover 802 is installed over a cap 808. The cap 808 has a topsurface 810 with a number of painted sections 812. The painted sections812 provide an indication through the windows 806 whether the valve ison or off when the cap 808 is rotated from the button cover 802 beingdepressed.

[0093] Another push button indicator 820 is shown in FIGS. 21A & 21B.The push button indicator 820 has a button cover 822 which functions inan identical manner to the button cover 164 in the valve unit 12. Thebutton cover 822 is in contact with a cap which is identical to the cap160 in the valve unit 12. The button cover 822 is kept depressedrelative to the button surface 156 of the button chamber 150 when thevalve unit 12 is on by the tabs 162 in relation to the deep slots onridged pattern on the inner compartment 152. The button cover 822 isflush with the button surface 156 when the valve unit if off as shown inFIG. 21B.

[0094] A further push button indicator 830 is shown in FIGS. 22A & 22B.The push button indicator 830 has a button cover 832 which is a rubberboot. The button cover 832 is attached to a cap 834 which functions inan identical manner to the cap 160 in the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4.The button cover 832 has an edge 836 which is held by a retaining ring838 to the button surface 156 of the button chamber 150. When the valveunit is on the cap 834 is in a down position as shown in FIG. 22A. Thebutton cover 832 forms a dimple 840 which indicates to a user that thevalve is on. When the button cover 832 is pressed, the dimple pops upwith the cap 834 and a hump 842 is formed as shown in FIG. 22B toindicate the valve is off.

[0095] The application of the valve shutoff is not restricted to hosenozzles. FIGS. 23A-23K show certain applications of the one touch valveunit explained above. FIG. 20A shows an inline one touch valve 850similar to the valve unit 12 which is mounted on a hose 852. The in linevalve 850 has a button 854 which is mounted on a collar 856. The button854 allows a user to turn fluid flow on or off in the hose 852.

[0096]FIG. 23B shows a one touch valve 860 similar to the valve unit 12which is mounted on a hose 862. The valve 860 has a base 864 which sitson the ground. The valve 860 allows a user to turn fluid flow on or offby pressing a button 866 with their foot.

[0097]FIG. 23C shows a lawn sprinkler 870 which has a hose coupler 872which is connected to a valve module 874. A hose 876 supplies water tothe lawn sprinkler 870. The valve module 874 has an outlet 878 which iscoupled to the hose coupler 872 and an inlet 880 which is coupled to theend of the hose 876. The valve module 874 has a push button 882 whichactivates or cuts off fluid flow to the outlet 878. The valve module 874functions in a similar manner to the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. Thevalve module 874 may be used as a flow cutoff switch to any device whichmay be mated to a hose such as other types of sprinklers.

[0098] The cutoff unit may be installed in different branchingconfigurations. For example, FIG. 23D shows a Y-branch type hoseconnector 890. The hose connector 890 has an inlet 892 and a pair ofoutlets 894 and 896 which allow attachment of two hoses to a singlefluid source coupled to the inlet 892. The flow through the outlet 894is controlled by a valve module 898 which has a push button 900 whichactivates or cuts off fluid flow to the outlet 894. Similarly, the flowthrough the outlet 896 is controlled by a valve module 902 which has apush button 904 which activates or cuts off fluid flow to the outlet896. The valve modules 898 and 902 function in a similar manner to thevalve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4.

[0099]FIG. 23E shows a separated function pistol nozzle and wandapparatus 910. The apparatus 910 has a hand-grip portion 912 which iscoupled to a hose 914. The hand-grip portion has a one touch activationbutton 916 which controls a one touch valve similar to the valve unit 12in FIGS. 1-4. The user grips the hand-grip portion 912 and may cut offor activate fluid flow via the button 916. A tube 918 is attached to thehand-grip portion 912. The tube 918 has a nozzle head 920 which allows auser to vary the spray pattern.

[0100]FIG. 23F shows the use of a one touch control with a travelingsprinkler 930 which tracks a hose 932. The traveling sprinkler 930 has avalve unit 934 with a push button control 936 which cuts off andactivates water flow to the traveling sprinkler 930 in a manner similarto the valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4. The traveling sprinkler 930 is waterpropelled via water supplied by the hose 932. An actuation ramp 938 isplaced on the hose 932. When the traveling sprinkler 930 moves into theactuation ramp 938, the ramp 938 pushes the button control 936 causingthe water to be shut off to the sprinkler 930 and halting the forwardmotion. Alternatively, the button control could also be installed on thehose and a catch mechanism could shut off flow when the travelingsprinkler hits the button control.

[0101] The one touch control also provides instantaneous flow activationor cutoff. This may have many applications. For example, FIG. 23G is afountain 940 which has a main water supply pipe 942. The fountain 940has a number of pipes 944 which shoot water in a specified pattern. Onetouch valves (not shown) similar to the valve unit 12 regulate the flowof water to the pipes. The valves are activated by a mechanical cammechanism (not shown) which activates and cuts off flow to each pipe 944in a set pattern. The mechanical cam mechanism may be replaced withelectromechanical components.

[0102] FIGS. 23H-23J shows a multiple spray pattern sprinkler 950. Thesprinkler 950 has a body 952 which is mounted to a rotating turret 954.The turret 954 has a number of different spray pattern heads which arealignable to an outlet passage 956 in the body 952. The body 952 has aone touch activation valve 958 which is similar to the valve unit 12 inFIGS. 1-4. The valve 958 is activated by a one touch pin 960 which isconnected to shaft 962 which moves a plunger 964 in relation todiaphragm 966. The pin 960 is seated in a circular trough 968 in thebottom surface of the turret 954. The trough 968 has mesas 970 betweenthe positions of spray pattern heads and indentations 972 where one ofthe spray heads are aligned to the outlet passage 956. When the turret954 is rotated between spray heads, the pin 960 is in contact with themesas 970 of the trough 968 which keeps the valve 958 off thuspreventing water flow from the outlet passage 956. When the turret 954is rotated so one of the spray heads is aligned to the outlet passage956, the pin 960 is moved to contract with an indentation 972 thusturning the valve 978 on and causing water to flow out of the selectedspray pattern head.

[0103] The turret configuration in FIGS. 23H-J may also be used on apistol-type nozzle 980 shown in FIG. 23K. The nozzle 980 has a one touchvalve unit 982 and rotating spray head 984 which operates similarly tothe turret 954 in FIGS. 23H-23J.

[0104] The light touch required to cut off and activate fluid flow makesthe valve unit 12 in FIGS. 1-4 compatible with electronic control forthe activation. For example, the valve unit 12 could be activated by anelectronic remote control device which activates a pulse-drivenmechanical actuator to close or open the valve unit.

[0105] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made in the method and system of thepresent invention without departing from the spirit or scope of theinvention. Thus, the present invention is not limited by the foregoingdescriptions but is intended to cover all modifications and variationsthat come within the scope of the spirit of the invention and the claimsthat follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A one touch valve for activating fluid flowbetween an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit, the valve comprising: aflow cylinder defining an inflow chamber in fluid communication with theinlet conduit and an outflow chamber in fluid communication with theoutlet conduit, the flow cylinder including an end plate and anintermediate plate having a center collar with an aperture; a flexiblediaphragm having a sealing surface in contact with the collar to createa seal, an opposite surface, an aperture extending therethrough, an edgecoupled to the intermediate plate and a small diameter hole providingfluid communication between the inflow chamber and an intermediatechamber defined by the intermediate plate and the flow cylinder; aplunger having a contact surface and an opposite diaphragm contactsurface, the diaphragm contact surface creating a seal with the oppositesurface of the diaphragm; a shaft having one end connected to theplunger and extending through the aperture of the diaphragm; a springlocated between the end plate of the flow cylinder and the contactsurface of the plunger; wherein pushing the shaft causes the plunger toseparate from the diaphragm creating fluid pressure on the diaphragmcontact surface to push the plunger toward the end plate, compressingthe spring, and causing the diaphragm to separate from the collarcausing fluid to flow from the inflow chamber through the aperture tothe outflow chamber, and wherein releasing the shaft causes the springto decompress, forcing the plunger and diaphragm away from the end platere-establishing the seal between the sealing surface with the collarpreventing fluid flow from the intermediate chamber to the outflowchamber.
 2. The valve of claim 1 further comprising a button structurecoupled to an opposite end of the shaft, the button structure having abutton cover, a button cap in contact with the opposite end of theshaft, the button cap in telescoping relation with the button cover andbeing rotatable between an inward position on depressing the button cap,and an outward position on depressing the button cap a second time. 3.The valve of claim 2 wherein the button cover has a radial window andthe cap has a top surface with a visual indicator, wherein the visualindicator is visible in the radial window of the button cover when thebutton cap is rotated.
 4. The valve of claim 2 further comprising atrigger having a handle mounted on a pivot wherein the handle isrotatable about the pivot to push the button cover.
 5. The valve ofclaim 2 further comprising: a mounting surface surrounding the buttoncover; a track on the mounting surface; a slide switch movable on thetrack between a forward and rearward position, the slide switch having acontact surface such that the button cover is pushed when the slideswitch is in a forward position.
 6. The valve of claim 2 wherein thebutton cover is set in a first position when the button cap is in theinward position and a second position to indicate when the button cap isin the outward position.
 7. The valve of claim 2 further comprising: amounting cylinder coupled between the inlet conduit and the outletconduit, the mounting cylinder having an outer inlet aperture for fluidcommunication with the inlet conduit; and wherein the flow cylinder isseated in the mounting cylinder and is rotatable relative to themounting cylinder, the flow cylinder further having a side wall with aninner inlet aperture to the inflow chamber, and whereby rotating theflow cylinder relative to the mounting cylinder exposes part to all ofthe inner inlet aperture to the outer inlet aperture.
 8. The valve ofclaim 7 further comprising a flow rate control knob coupled to the flowcylinder to allow rotation of the flow cylinder, wherein the flow rateknob is mounted over the end plate of the flow cylinder opposite thebutton structure.
 9. The valve of claim 7 further comprising a flow ratecontrol knob coupled to the flow cylinder to allow rotation of the flowcylinder, wherein the control knob has a collar which mounts the buttonstructure.
 10. The valve of claim 1 wherein the opposite diaphragmcontact surface of the plunger is a conical shape and the contactsurface of the diaphragm is a matching conical shape.
 11. The valve ofclaim 1 wherein the diaphragm is rubber material.
 12. The valve of claim1 wherein the diaphragm is elastomeric polymer material.
 13. The valveof claim 1 further comprising a rocker switch which controls theactuation of the shaft, the rocker switch having a switch pivoting on asurface, one end of the switch in mechanical contact with the shaft, aspring mounted to the surface, the spring coupled to the shaft to forcethe shaft in either a first position or a second position.
 14. The valveof claim 1 further comprising a flow rate control in fluid communicationwith the flow control cylinder.
 15. The valve of claim 14 wherein theflow rate control is a ball valve having a knob to rotate the valve tocontrol the rate of fluid flow.
 16. The valve of claim 1 furthercomprising: a hose forming the inlet conduit and outlet conduit; and abase having a support in contact with the ground, wherein a user canactivate the flow of fluid via their foot.
 17. The valve of claim 1further comprising: a hose coupler coupled to the inlet conduit; and asprinkler coupled to the outlet conduit.
 18. The valve of claim 17wherein the sprinkler is a traveling sprinkler having a main body with awater driven propulsion unit, and a cutoff switch coupled to the shafton the underside of the propulsion unit.
 19. The valve of claim 1further comprising a rotating turret having a plurality of differentspray pattern outlets wherein the turret is rotatable so a spray patternoutlet is in alignment with the outlet conduit, the turret having abottom surface with a groove in contact with the shaft, wherein theshaft is located in the groove to activate the valve when a spraypattern outlet is aligned with the outlet conduit and the valve iscutoff when the spray pattern outlets are not aligned with one of theoutlets.
 20. The valve of claim 1 further comprising; a cylindricalvalve seat having a slot; a pin moveable in the slot; an actuatorcoupled to the pin; and wherein the flow cylinder is attached to the pinand has an inlet aperture, wherein the inlet aperture is moved relativeto the inlet conduit when the pin is moved in the slot.
 21. A flowcontrol valve unit allowing a user to control the fluid flow rate andcutoff or activate fluid flow between an inlet conduit and an outletconduit, the control valve unit comprising: an exterior cylinder with aside wall having an outer inlet aperture in fluid communication with theinlet conduit; a flow cylinder rotatably mounted within the side wall ofthe exterior cylinder, the flow cylinder defining an inflow chamber influid communication with the inlet conduit and an outflow chamber influid communication with the outlet conduit, the flow cylinder includingan inner inlet aperture which allows fluid communication to an inflowchamber, an end plate and an intermediate plate having a center collarwith an aperture, wherein rotating the flow cylinder changes the area ofthe inner inlet aperture in fluid communication to the outer inletaperture in order to control flow rate; a flexible diaphragm having asealing surface in contact with the collar to create a seal, an oppositesurface, an aperture extending therethrough, an edge coupled to theintermediate plate and a small diameter hole providing fluid contactbetween the inflow chamber and an intermediate chamber defined by theintermediate plate and the flow cylinder; a plunger having a contactsurface and an opposite diaphragm contact surface, the diaphragm contactsurface creating a seal with the opposite surface of the diaphragm; ashaft having one end connected to the plunger and extending through theaperture of the diaphragm; a spring located between the end plate of theflow cylinder and the contact surface of the plunger; wherein pushingthe shaft causes the plunger to separate from the diaphragm creatingfluid pressure on the diaphragm contact surface to push the plungertoward the end plate, compressing the spring, and causing the diaphragmto separate from the collar causing fluid to flow from the inflowchamber through the aperture to the outflow chamber, and whereinreleasing the shaft causes the spring to decompress, forcing the plungerand diaphragm away from the end plate re-establishing the seal betweenthe sealing surface with the collar preventing fluid flow from theintermediate chamber to the outflow chamber.
 22. The valve unit of claim21 further comprising a button structure coupled to an opposite end ofthe shaft, the button structure having a button cover, a button cap incontact with the opposite end of the shaft, the button cap intelescoping relation with the button cover and being rotatable betweenan inward position on depressing the button cap, and an outward positionon depressing the button cap a second time.
 23. The valve unit of claim22 further comprising a flow rate control knob coupled to the flowcylinder to allow rotation of the flow cylinder, wherein the flow rateknob is mounted over the end plate of the flow cylinder opposite thebutton structure.
 24. The valve unit of claim 22 further comprising aflow rate control knob coupled to the flow cylinder to allow rotation ofthe flow cylinder, wherein the control knob has a collar which supportsthe button structure.
 25. The valve unit of claim 21 wherein theopposite diaphragm contact surface of the plunger is a conical shape andthe contact surface of the diaphragm is a matching conical shape. 26.The valve unit of claim 21 wherein the diaphragm is rubber material. 27.The valve unit of claim 21 wherein the diaphragm is elastomeric polymermaterial.
 28. The valve unit of claim 21 wherein the inner inletaperture and the outer inlet aperture have the same cross-sectionalshape and area.
 29. The valve unit of claim 22 wherein the button coverhas a radial window and the cap has a top surface with a visualindicator, wherein the visual indicator is visible in the radial windowof the button cover when the button cap is rotated.
 30. The valve unitof claim 22 further comprising a trigger having a handle mounted on apivot wherein the handle is rotatable about the pivot to push the buttoncover.
 31. The valve unit of claim 22 further comprising: a mountingsurface surrounding the button cover; a track on the mounting surface; aslide switch movable on the track between a forward and rearwardposition, the slide switch having a contact surface such that the buttoncover is pushed when the slide switch is in a forward position.
 32. Thevalve unit of claim 22 wherein the button cover is set in a firstposition when the button cap is in the inward position and a secondposition to indicate when the button cap is in the outward position. 33.The valve unit of claim 22 further comprising a rocker switch whichcontrols the actuation of the shaft, the rocker switch having a switchpivoting on a surface, one end of the switch in mechanical contact withthe shaft, a spring mounted to the surface, the spring coupled to theshaft to force the shaft in either a first position or a secondposition.
 34. A pistol hose nozzle allowing flow control comprising: ahand-grip portion connectable to a fluid source; a barrel portion havinga fluid outlet; an exterior cylinder coupled to the hand-grip portionand the barrel portion, the exterior cylinder having a side wall with anouter inlet aperture in fluid communication with the hand-grip portion;a flow cylinder rotatably mounted within the side wall of the exteriorcylinder, the flow cylinder defining an inflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the hand-grip portion and an outflow chamber in fluidcommunication with the barrel portion, the flow cylinder including aninner inlet aperture which allows fluid communication to an inflowchamber, an end plate and an intermediate plate having a center collarwith an aperture; a flexible diaphragm having a sealing surface incontact with the collar to create a seal, an opposite surface, anaperture extending therethrough, an edge coupled to the intermediateplate and a small diameter hole providing fluid contact between theinflow chamber and an intermediate chamber defined by the intermediateplate of the flow cylinder; a plunger having a contact surface and anopposite diaphragm contact surface, the diaphragm contact surfacecreating a seal with the opposite surface of the diaphragm; a shafthaving one end connected to the plunger and extending through theaperture of the diaphragm; a spring located between the end plate of theflow cylinder and the contact surface of the plunger; wherein pushingthe shaft causes the plunger to separate from the diaphragm creatingfluid pressure on the diaphragm contact surface to push the plungertoward the end plate, compressing the spring, and causing the diaphragmto separate from the collar causing fluid to flow from the inflowchamber through the aperture to the outflow chamber, and whereinreleasing the shaft causes the spring to decompress, forcing the plungerand diaphragm away from the end plate re-establishing the seal betweenthe sealing surface with the collar preventing fluid flow from theintermediate chamber to the outflow chamber.
 35. The pistol hose nozzleof claim 34 further comprising a button structure coupled to an oppositeend of the shaft, the button structure having a button cover, a buttoncap in contact with the opposite end of the shaft, the button cap intelescoping relation with the button cover, the button cap beingrotatable between an inward position on depressing the button cap, andan outward position on depressing the button cap a second time.
 36. Thepistol hose nozzle of claim 35 further comprising a flow rate controlknob coupled to the flow cylinder to allow rotation of the flowcylinder, wherein the flow rate knob is mounted over the end plate ofthe flow cylinder opposite the button structure.
 37. The pistol hosenozzle of claim 35 further comprising a flow rate control knob coupledto the flow cylinder to allow rotation of the flow cylinder, wherein thecontrol knob has a collar which supports the button structure.
 38. Thepistol hose nozzle of claim 35 further comprising: an flexible moldedcovering over the hose nozzle; a spring strip suspended over the button,wherein the molded covering may be squeezed in order to activate thevalve.
 39. The valve of claim 34 wherein the opposite diaphragm contactsurface of the plunger is a conical shape and the contact surface of thediaphragm is a matching conical shape.
 40. The valve of claim 34 whereinthe diaphragm is a rubber material.
 41. The valve of claim 34 whereinthe diaphragm is an elastomeric polymer material.
 42. A valve for onetouch fluid activation or cutoff and flow rate control between an inletconduit and an outlet conduit comprising: a valve housing having a sidewall; a top member on the valve housing; a central conduit in fluidcommunication with the inlet conduit, the central cylinder having anopen top inlet with a shoulder; a flexible diaphragm between the valvehousing and the top member, the diaphragm and valve housing defining alower chamber in fluid communication with the outlet conduit; an upperchamber defined by the diaphragm and the valve housing; a plungerconnected to the diaphragm having a top surface and a bottom plug whichforms a seal with the shoulder of the central conduit, and a small holetherethrough providing fluid communication from the central conduitthrough the top surface to the upper chamber, the plunger and diaphragmcapable of movement away from the shoulder of the central conduit toallow fluid flow from the central conduit to the lower chamber; a springbetween the top surface of the plunger and the top member; a pilotchamber in fluid communication with the lower chamber; a button chamberin fluid communication with the upper chamber and having a holeproviding fluid access to the pilot chamber; a pilot pin which ismovable in the button chamber between an open position allowing fluidaccess through the hole and a closed position plugging the hole; a flowrate control which limits the distance the plunger may be moved from theshoulder of the central conduit; and wherein when the pilot pin is inthe closed position, fluid pressure in the upper chamber and force fromthe spring move the plunger against the shoulder of the central conduitpreventing fluid flow to the lower chamber, and when the pilot pin ismoved to the open position, fluid flows from the upper chamber throughthe button chamber, pilot chamber and to the lower chamber creatingfluid pressure on the bottom plug of the plunger and separating theplunger from the shoulder of the central conduit creating fluid flowbetween the central conduit and the lower chamber.
 43. The valve ofclaim 42 further comprising a button cap coupled to the pilot pin whichwhen pushed locks the pilot pin in the closed position and when pushedagain locks the pilot pin in the open position.
 44. The valve of claim42 wherein the top member includes a socket and the flow rate controlincludes an inlet screw held by the socket having a contact end inadjustable relation to the top surface of the plunger and an oppositeend connected to a rotatable flow control knob.
 45. The valve of claim42 wherein the top member includes a socket and the flow rate controlincludes: an inlet screw held by the socket having a contact end inadjustable relation to the top surface of the plunger and an oppositeend having a gear; a slider having a rack with a teeth intermeshing withthe gear and an opposite tab; a support member having a slot, whereinthe tab of the slider is moveable within the slot.
 46. The valve ofclaim 42 wherein the diaphragm is a rubber material.
 47. The valve ofclaim 42 wherein the diaphragm is an elastomeric polymer material.
 48. Aone touch water flow control unit for activating fluid flow to a waterdriven device, the unit comprising: an inlet coupler; an outlet coupler;a flow cylinder defining an inflow chamber in fluid communication withthe inlet coupler and an outflow chamber in fluid communication with theoutlet coupler, the flow cylinder including an end plate and anintermediate plate having a center collar with an aperture; a flexiblediaphragm having a sealing surface in contact with the collar to createa seal, an opposite surface, an aperture extending therethrough, an edgecoupled to the intermediate plate and a small diameter hole providingfluid contact between the inflow chamber and an intermediate chamberdefined by the intermediate plate of the flow cylinder; a plunger havinga contact surface and an opposite diaphragm contact surface, thediaphragm contact surface creating a seal with the opposite surface ofthe diaphragm; a shaft having one end connected to the plunger andextending through the aperture of the diaphragm; a spring locatedbetween the end plate of the flow cylinder and the contact surface ofthe plunger; wherein pushing the shaft causes the plunger to separatefrom the diaphragm creating fluid pressure on the diaphragm contactsurface to push the plunger toward the end plate, compressing thespring, and causing the diaphragm to separate from the collar causingfluid to flow from the inflow chamber through the aperture to theoutflow chamber, and wherein releasing the shaft causes the spring todecompress, forcing the plunger and diaphragm away from the end platere-establishing the seal between the sealing surface with the collarpreventing fluid flow from the intermediate chamber to the outflowchamber.
 49. The water flow unit of claim 48 further comprising a buttonstructure coupled to an opposite end of the shaft, the button structurehaving a button cover, a button cap in contact with the opposite end ofthe shaft, the button cap in telescoping relation with the button cover,the button cap being rotatable between an inward position on depressingthe button cap, and an outward position on depressing the button cap asecond time.
 50. The water flow control unit of claim 48 wherein theinlet coupler has a male hose connector, and the outlet coupler hasinterior threads.
 51. The water flow control unit of claim 48 furthercomprising: a hand-grip coupled to the control unit; a hose having oneend coupled to the outlet; and a hose nozzle coupled to the other end ofthe hose.
 52. The water flow control unit of claim 48 wherein the inletcoupler has a second branch leading to a one touch cutoff flow valvewith a second outlet coupler.